Guru Viking Podcast Ep323: British Occultist - Alan Chapman
4 snips
Sep 5, 2025 
Alan Chapman, a British writer and occultist, shares insights from his transformative spiritual journey. He reflects on his challenging childhood in Northern England and first encounters with Aleister Crowley. Alan discusses the complexities of the British class system and its impact on identity. He explores the significance of spiritual transmission and reveals his thoughts on various gurus, including Stephen Batchelor and Adi Da. Additionally, he delves into the role of the Dark Goddess in spiritual awakening, emphasizing the delicate balance of light and dark in personal growth.
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Early Crowley Encounter
- Alan Chapman discovered Aleister Crowley as a child and felt both repulsed and thrilled by the hint that magic might be real.
- He later bought Crowley's Magic in Theory and Practice at 15 and spent years studying Crowley while working menial jobs.
Growing Up Sensitive On A Council Estate
- Alan describes being a sensitive, bookish boy who got attacked at school and was punished for defending himself.
- He learned to read danger early and developed self-reliance while navigating class differences and cruelty.
Class Shapes Identity And Limits Escape
- Chapman argues British class embeds identity and constrains expectations, so moving classes never erases origins.
- He lived between classes and felt always on the edge, which shaped his path and choices.
